This project used a science-based, experimental approach to develop treatment and restoration
strategies for the emerging invasive grass, Brachypodium distachyon (Brachypodium), on
conserved lands in southern San Diego County, CA. Phase I (2013-2015) included conceptual
models to inform experimentally-based treatment and restoration strategies; experimental
treatments (dethatching, herbicide, mechanical removal), monitoring, and seed collection,
bulking, and outplanting. Treatments continued in Phase II (2016-2017), using the most
effective management strategy (herbicide). See the Phase I and II reports for study results and
Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Brachypodium control. Herbicide is the most effective
treatment for controlling Brachypodium but timing of treatment is critical and multiple
treatments may be required in a single year, depending on rainfall and temperature. Herbicide
treatment of forbs becomes increasingly important as cover of Brachypodium and other
nonnative grasses decrease. Dethatching improves treatment effectiveness and stimulates the
soil seedbank (if present). The experimental design was coordinated with SDMMP and the City
of San Diego, and results may contribute to a regional analysis of Brachypodium control across
multiple sites, habitats, and microclimates.